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Understanding the Ways of Categorizing Forklifts

Oct. 13 2021 Buying Guide By CCon Metals

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Forklifts can be categorized in many different ways, from their size to their tires. Understanding the different categories can help make the forklift shopping process much easier, which is why we created the following guide. For more shopping tips or to shop forklifts for sale, contact the experts at CCon Metals.

The Forklift Sizes

There are different common sizes of forklifts:

  • A standard forklift is usually between 4 and 7 feet wide and between 8 and 10 feet long.
  • A forklift designed for outdoor or rough terrain is often over 10 feet long.
  • A narrow aisle forklift is often less than 5 feet.

Forklifts also vary in their height. A standard forklift will reach heights between 10 and 15 feet. A specialized forklift, such as a telehandler, can reach heights of up to 55 feet.

The Forklift Tires

Forklifts usually use one of two tire types:

  • Cushion tires. These are made of mostly solid rubber. They work best on smooth surfaces.
  • Pneumatic tires. These are filled with air. They work best at coping with larger capacities.

The Forklift Classes

Forklifts are broken down into seven different classes by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. This classification approach focuses on the forklift's fuel option and usage.

Class I: Electric Motor Ride Truck

  • Electric fuel type.
  • Used in indoor settings, especially when there's a concern about air quality.

Class II: Electric Motor Narrow Aisle Truck

  • Battery fuel type.
  • Used for moving items in narrow spaces.

Class III: Electric Motor Hand Truck

  • Battery fuel type.
  • Used across short distances to help load delivery trucks.

Class IV: Internal Combustion Engine with Cushion Tires

  • Gas or diesel fuel type.
  • Used at low-clearance worksites.

Class V : Internal Combustion Engine Trucks with Pneumatic Tires

  • Gas or diesel fuel type.
  • Used on rough surfaces indoors and outdoors.

Class VI: Electric and Internal Combustion Engine Tractors

  • Battery, gas, or diesel fuel type.
  • Used for hauling and towing cargo.

Class VII: Rough Terrain Forklift Truck

  • Gas or diesel fuel type.
  • Used on uneven ground and for high elevation lifting.

The Types of Forklifts

Forklifts can also be categorized based on their type. There are various types of forklifts on the market, but the most common include:

  • Warehouse forklift, which has a loading capacity of up to 5 tons.
  • Side loader forklift, which has a sideways compartment that can move in the direction of the load.
  • Counterbalance forklift, which has back-mounted weight to keep loads balanced.

Ready to shop forklifts for sale? Check out the selection at CCon Metals. Peruse the available models online or stop by our dealership. We are located in Granite Falls, North Carolina, and also serve those in Hickory and Lenoir.